Volunteer

Volunteer Stylists in the Bernice Lavin Salon at San Diego's Ronald McDonald House

Help create a "home away from home" for families in need.

Volunteers are the heart of San Diego's Ronald McDonald House. Each month, hundreds of individuals share their time and talents to make sure families may experience the comforts of home while caring for their hospitalized child.

We invite you to attend a volunteer information session, where you will take a tour and learn more about what we do. Please see our volunteer opportunities below for descriptions of how you can join in our community of care.

Using your vehicle or ours, pick up donated items from locations around San Diego County. You might also transport goods for events or even take a family to the airport. Then, you'll help us distribute the donated items to where they are most needed. You must be at least 21, have a driver’s license and proof of insurance. A 3‐year abstract of your driving record will be required.

Office Support

Our Reception Volunteers are the first faces our families and visitors see when they come in our House. You will greet them, answer phones, accept deliveries and donations, and help keep our great room tidy and welcoming. As you become more comfortable, you will also give tours and help check families in and out of the House. From time to time, you may also help our administrative staff with data entry, phone inquiries, mailings and filing, or other special projects.

House Operations

Guest Services - Some families come here with nothing but the clothes on their backs. We do our best to provide them with the essentials. Help organize our clothing and toy cabinets, assemble welcome bags, and help check families in and out of the House.

House Services - We need help with everyday tasks like washing windows, vacuuming, laundry, organizing the pantry, or changing light bulbs and making minor repairs.

Event support

Events are a key way to raise funds and awareness of the Ronald McDonald House. Join a planning committee, recruit volunteers, and solicit auction items and sponsorships. At the event, you might greet guests, help with setup, and help us teardown and clean up.

Special Services

Love to fix things? - Become a House Handyman! We also welcome many other talents - bakers, hair stylists, musicians, massage therapists and more!

Meal Provider Program—Volunteer to Cook and Serve Meals

It takes more than 300 volunteer groups each year to help us prepare food and serve approximately 150 to 200 people for lunch and supper, and 100 people at breakfast. These healthy meals are essential to keep families strong and focused during a child's hospitalization.

Learn how you and your group can help keep families strong through our meal provider program. Questions about the Meal Provider Program? Call 858-598-2619 or via email.